By: Glenn Shearron, TradeInsights, ECoP®

The United Arab Emirates is implementing a significant new security initiative known as the Maritime Pre‑Load Cargo Information (MPCI) program. This regulation requires cargo data to be electronically submitted to the UAE’s National Advance Information Center (NAIC) before loading at the last foreign port. The goal is to strengthen cargo security and enable earlier risk assessments.

Full compliance begins April 1, 2026.

The MPCI requirement applies to all containerized cargo:

• Imported into the UAE
• Transshipped through the UAE
• In transit via UAE ports
• Freight Remaining on Board (FROB)

As part of ensuring full compliance and timely submission on your behalf, we will assess a $50 fee per MPCI filing. This applies to any House B/L submission we file as the forwarding/NVOCC agent.

We encourage you to begin providing complete shipping data as early as possible to avoid delays or NAIC rejections. If you have any questions, you may contact your V. Alexander account team, or you may also contact our Trade Compliance team at tradeinsights@valexander.com with any questions, and you can always follow us on our website www.valexander.com for updates on this and other topics.